The Jets began to cut players Friday morning, and the only news is that FB John Conner is safe, according to a league source.

The final cuts are due by 9 p.m., meaning there's always a chance that could change. But unless an upgrade shakes free over the next 24 to 48 hours, the Jets will stick with Conner. The season-ending knee injury to FB/TE Josh Baker may have saved Conner.

The Jets are roughly $5 million to $6 million under the salary cap, but the word close to the team is that money will weigh heavily into decisions as they finalize their 53-man roster.

The remainder of the cuts should be uneventful. WR Chaz Schilens, who missed the last three preseason games with a high-ankle sprain, is likely to make it, a source said. See the previous blog post for the names of those likely to be released.

The Jets have to cut a total of 22 players. They will be releasing players throughout the day. They also have a practice scheduled for noon.